The dance and music inspired and founded in Latin culture is coming to the Macedon Ranges.

On Saturday, 17 November, the St Ambrose Hall in Woodend becomes part of Little Havana when SALSONANDO, the new big band sound of Latin American music in Australia, will be playing. With the band up close on the dance floor and the Latin rhythms flooding the hall you may find Evita sitting at the next table.

SALSONANDO will be performing with their eight-piece band including a full percussion section of three Cuban percussionists that typifies Latin American music. The brass section plays their tight arrangements with a musical precision that helps drive their distinctive sound. The Salsonando big band sound is rounded out by a Latin piano and base guitar.

Julio Mendez and Louis Figueroa are the lead vocalists in the band interpreting the latest Latin dance hits. The band has strong Cuban roots and Julio spent two years developing his music in Havana and other parts of Cuba. The “Buena Vista Social Club” CD produced by Ry Cooder helped reconnect Cuban music to a wider world audience. SALSONANDO are part of this connection with a musical collective that draws on a rich tradition of Latino music and their musical apprenticeship across the Americas.

The luscious URSULA ATUNEZ will be leading the audience through some basic salsa steps to add to your entertainment and enjoyment of the night. The Colombian Connection, Barbarita & Oliver, will be on the dance floor to help you follow Ursula through an introduction to Salsa.

Latin dance and music is now part of the music mainstream in Melbourne and comes to the Macedon Ranges at Saturday Night Live 7.30 – 11.30 PM, Saturday 17 November 2007 in the St Ambrose Hall in Templeton St, Woodend.

Entry is by ticket only that can be purchased in person or by telephone for $25 from Woodend Copy Centre, Shop 5, 130 High St, Woodend or Telephone 5427 3092.

The Caribbean Bar will again be serving the best local wines and beers.